Neuralink competitor Paradromics completes first human implant

Neurotechnology firm Paradromics has successfully performed its inaugural human implantation of a brain-computer interface (BCI), a significant step in its evolution as a clinical-stage entity. This groundbreaking procedure occurred on May 14 at the University of Michigan, where a patient undergoing neurosurgery for epilepsy became the first recipient of the technology. The entire process, which involved implanting and subsequently removing the device, took approximately 20 minutes. According to Paradromics, this operation has confirmed the safety and efficacy of its system in recording neural activity. Founder and CEO Matt Angle expressed enthusiasm over this achievement, stating, "We've shown in sheep that our device is best in class from a data and longevity standpoint, and now we've also shown that it's compatible with humans." He emphasized the anticipation surrounding an upcoming clinical trial set to launch later this year, pending regulatory approval. The Connexus BCI, Paradromics' flagship technology, is designed to assist individuals with severe motor disabilities, such as paralysis, by enabling them to communicate through a computer interface. While the device has yet to receive clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, institutions like the University of Michigan can utilize new devices for research purposes, provided they demonstrate minimal patient risk. Dr. Oren Sagher, a neurosurgery professor at the University of Michigan, oversaw the clinical aspects of the procedure, while Dr. Matthew Willsey, an assistant professor in neurosurgery and biomedical engineering, managed the research elements, including the device's placement. As the BCI field advances, Paradromics joins other notable companies like Elon Musk's Neuralink and Synchron, which have already implanted their systems in humans. Angle likened Paradromics' method to placing microphones inside a stadium for detailed sound capture, contrasting it with external microphones that only capture broad noises. With nearly $100 million raised to date, Paradromics is on the cusp of potentially transforming communication for those with severe disabilities. Angle remarked, "The last demonstration stuff has been shown, and we're really excited about the clinical trial that's coming up."